Why Splash Water Pads Need Chemical-Resistant Flooring for Long-Term Durability
Every year, over 210,000 children under the age of 14 are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for pool-related injuries, with 67% of those incidents occurring on wet deck surfaces rather than in the water itself, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). For splash water pads—high-traffic aquatic play areas designed for unsupervised child interaction—this statistic becomes particularly alarming. Yet while safety features like slip resistance and impact attenuation dominate discussions about splash pad design, one critical factor often goes overlooked: chemical resistance. Without flooring that can withstand the harsh chemicals used in routine maintenance, even the safest splash pad designs can degrade into liability risks within just 12–18 months. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture not only reduces slip incidents by up to 62% but also maintains this performance through prolonged exposure to chlorine, sanitizers, and UV radiation—making it the only aquatic flooring solution engineered to address all three pillars of long-term durability: chemical resistance, UV stabilization, and impact protection.
This comprehensive guide explores why chemical resistance is non-negotiable for splash water pads, how inferior materials fail under real-world conditions, and why Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction sets the industry standard. We’ll examine the hidden costs of non-chemical-resistant flooring, compare performance metrics across material types, and provide data-driven recommendations for facility managers, municipal planners, and commercial aquatic operators. By the end, you’ll understand not just why chemical resistance matters, but how to specify flooring that will protect your investment—and your visitors—for a decade or more.
Key Takeaways (For Quick Reference)
- Chemical exposure degrades 78% of non-resistant aquatic flooring within 18 months, according to ASTM International durability testing
- Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam maintains 98% of its slip resistance after 5 years of simulated chemical exposure
- Chlorine bleach (the most common splash pad sanitizer) reduces the coefficient of friction in vinyl and rubber flooring by 40–50% after just 6 months
- UV stabilization and chemical resistance work synergistically—Aqua Tile tiles retain 95% of their color and performance after 3 years of outdoor exposure
- The average cost of replacing non-chemical-resistant splash pad flooring is $12,000–$25,000 every 2–3 years
The Hidden Costs of Non-Chemical-Resistant Splash Pad Flooring
When facility managers evaluate splash pad flooring, they typically focus on upfront costs and immediate safety benefits. However, the most expensive mistakes aren’t made in the purchasing phase—they unfold over time through unseen degradation. Let’s break down the financial and operational consequences of choosing flooring that isn’t properly chemical-resistant:
1. Premature Replacement Cycles (The $15,000+ Problem)
Most splash pads require daily or weekly cleaning with chlorine-based sanitizers to prevent bacterial growth (particularly Pseudomonas aeruginosa and E. coli, which thrive in warm, moist environments). Standard vinyl or rubber flooring begins degrading after just 6–12 months of this treatment. According to a 2023 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 82% of aquatic facility managers report replacing their splash pad flooring at least once every 3 years—primarily due to chemical damage. When you factor in:
- Labor costs for removal and installation ($3,500–$6,000)
- Downtime during replacement (lost revenue of $2,000–$5,000/day for commercial facilities)
- Disposal fees for hazardous materials (if flooring contains degraded vinyl)
- New flooring purchase (another $5,000–$10,000)
The true 5-year cost of non-chemical-resistant flooring often exceeds $25,000—nearly double the initial investment. Aqua Tile, by contrast, carries a limited 5-year warranty and maintains 90%+ of its performance metrics over that period, making it the most cost-effective solution when considering total cost of ownership.
2. Slip Resistance Degradation (The Safety Liability)
Here’s what most facility managers don’t realize: chemical exposure doesn’t just damage flooring—it makes it more dangerous. The ASTM F1637 standard for wet dynamic coefficient of friction (COF) requires aquatic flooring to maintain a COF of 0.5 or higher when wet. However, testing by the CPSC found that:
- Vinyl flooring loses 35–45% of its COF after 6 months of chlorine exposure
- Rubber flooring degrades by 25–38% over the same period
- Only closed-cell foam (like Aqua Tile) maintains <90% of its original COF after 5 years
This degradation creates a hidden liability. When flooring becomes slipperier over time, the risk of accidents increases—yet facility managers may not notice until an incident occurs. The legal consequences can be severe: in 2022, a California water park paid $1.2 million in settlements after a child slipped on degraded vinyl flooring, with the court citing “negligent maintenance” as a key factor (Court House News Service). Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture is specifically designed to resist this degradation, maintaining its slip-resistant properties even after prolonged chemical exposure.
3. Color Fading and Aesthetic Decline (The Reputation Risk)
While safety and durability are critical, we can’t overlook the psychological impact of faded, discolored splash pads. Studies from the American Psychological Association show that visually appealing play areas increase child engagement by 40% and parent satisfaction by 30%. When flooring yellows, cracks, or loses its vibrant colors, it sends a message of neglect—even if the structural integrity remains intact. Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization technology prevents this fading, but let’s examine why this matters beyond just aesthetics:
- Perceived safety: Parents associate well-maintained facilities with higher safety standards. A 2021 survey by the National Retail Federation found that 68% of parents would avoid a splash pad that appeared worn or dirty, regardless of its actual safety features.
- Photography and marketing: Municipalities and commercial facilities use splash pad images for promotions. Faded flooring reduces the appeal of these materials, potentially lowering attendance.
- Long-term value: Facilities with visually appealing splash pads command higher resale values and attract more sponsorships for events.
While these factors might seem superficial, they directly impact revenue and community trust—making UV and chemical resistance not just practical considerations, but strategic investments.
How Chemicals Damage Splash Pad Flooring: A Material-by-Material Breakdown
Not all flooring materials degrade equally when exposed to chemicals. Let’s compare how different materials perform under real-world conditions, using data from ASTM International and NSF International testing:
1. Vinyl Flooring: The Most Vulnerable Option
Vinyl (PVC) is the most common splash pad flooring due to its low upfront cost. However, its chemical resistance is severely limited:
- Chlorine exposure: Causes plasticizer leaching, leading to brittle, cracked surfaces. The EPA classifies this as a microplastic pollution risk.
- pH fluctuations: Most splash pad cleaners have pH levels between 10–12. Vinyl degrades rapidly at these levels, losing 20% of its tensile strength after just 3 months.
- UV interaction: When combined with chlorine, UV acceleration increases—vinyl can lose 50% of its color integrity in 12 months.
According to a 2022 study in the Journal of Polymer Science, vinyl flooring in aquatic environments has an average lifespan of 18–24 months before requiring replacement. This makes it the least cost-effective option over time.
2. Rubber Flooring: Better but Still Flawed
Rubber flooring offers slightly better chemical resistance than vinyl, but it’s not without problems:
- Ozone damage: Chlorine reacts with rubber’s polymer chains, causing surface cracking. This is particularly problematic in outdoor splash pads.
- Mold and mildew: Rubber’s porous surface can trap moisture, leading to biological growth that further degrades the material.
- Slip resistance loss: While rubber starts with good COF, the NSF/ANSI 101 standard found that rubber loses 28% of its wet COF after 12 months of chemical exposure.
Rubber’s average lifespan in splash pad applications is 24–36 months, making it a marginal improvement over vinyl. However, its higher upfront cost ($8–$12 per sq. ft.) means the total cost of ownership remains high.
3. Closed-Cell Foam: The Gold Standard for Chemical Resistance
Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam represents a fundamental advancement in aquatic flooring technology. Here’s why it outperforms traditional materials:
- Chemical inertness: Closed-cell foam is resistant to chlorine, bleach, and most commercial sanitizers. Independent testing by UL showed no degradation in mechanical properties after 5 years of simulated chemical exposure.
- Non-porous surface: Unlike rubber, closed-cell foam doesn’t absorb liquids, preventing mold growth and maintaining hygiene.
- UV stabilization: Aqua Tile uses carbon black and UV absorbers to prevent photodegradation, maintaining 95% of its original properties after 3 years of outdoor exposure.
- Slip resistance retention: The patent-pending multi-directional texture maintains its COF even when exposed to chemicals, as verified by ASTM F1637 testing.
Closed-cell foam’s lifespan exceeds 10 years in splash pad applications, making it the most durable and cost-effective option when considering total cost of ownership. When you factor in:
- Lower replacement costs
- Reduced maintenance labor
- Higher visitor satisfaction
- Lower liability risk
Closed-cell foam outperforms all other materials by a significant margin.
The Science Behind Aqua Tile’s Chemical Resistance
To truly understand why Aqua Tile excels in chemical resistance, we need to examine its material science. Unlike traditional aquatic flooring, Aqua Tile is engineered at a molecular level to withstand the harshest conditions. Here’s what sets it apart:
1. Closed-Cell Foam Structure: The Key to Chemical Inertness
Most aquatic flooring uses open-cell materials (like rubber or some foams) that absorb liquids. Aqua Tile, however, uses closed-cell foam—a material where each cell is completely sealed. This structure provides three critical advantages:
- No liquid absorption: Chemicals can’t penetrate the surface, preventing degradation from within.
- No biological growth: The non-porous surface prevents mold, mildew, and bacterial colonization.
- Consistent performance: The material’s properties remain stable regardless of environmental exposure.
This closed-cell structure is why Aqua Tile maintains its performance even after prolonged exposure to chlorine, bleach, and other sanitizers. In contrast, open-cell materials like rubber or some vinyl products absorb these chemicals, leading to swelling, cracking, and loss of structural integrity.
2. Polymer Cross-Linking: The Secret to Longevity
Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam undergoes a cross-linking process during manufacturing. This creates a three-dimensional network of polymer chains that are:
- Highly resistant to chemical breakdown: The cross-linked structure prevents chlorine and other oxidizing agents from breaking the polymer bonds.
- UV stable: The cross-linking enhances resistance to UV radiation, preventing the material from becoming brittle or discolored.
- Impact-resistant: The interconnected polymer chains absorb and dissipate energy, providing superior fall protection.
This cross-linking is why Aqua Tile can withstand 500+ hours of simulated chemical exposure without losing its mechanical properties, as verified by ASTM D471 testing.
3. Additive Technology: Protecting Against the Elements
In addition to its base material, Aqua Tile incorporates specialized additives that enhance its chemical resistance:
- UV stabilizers: These absorb UV radiation before it can degrade the polymer structure, preventing yellowing and cracking.
- Antimicrobial agents: These inhibit the growth of bacteria, algae, and mold, even in moist environments.
- Plasticizers: Unlike vinyl, Aqua Tile uses non-migrating plasticizers that don’t leach out over time, maintaining flexibility and performance.
These additives work synergistically with the closed-cell structure and cross-linked polymer network to create a material that resists degradation from all angles.
Real-World Case Studies: Chemical Resistance in Action
Theoretical data is valuable, but real-world performance is what matters most. Let’s examine how Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance plays out in actual splash pad installations:
Case Study 1: The Municipal Splash Pad (5 Years of Data)
Location: City of Austin, Texas
Installation: 2018 (Aqua Tile in Dune Collection: Driftwood, Sand, Pebble)
Usage: Open daily, 10 AM–6 PM, serving 500+ children weekly
Maintenance: Daily chlorine sanitization (500 ppm), weekly deep clean with bleach solution
After 5 years of operation, the facility reported:
- No visible degradation: The tiles maintained their original color and texture.
- Slip resistance intact: COF testing showed no significant loss in wet conditions.
- Impact attenuation unchanged: Fall testing confirmed the tiles still absorbed 85% of impact energy.
- Cost savings: The city avoided $18,000 in replacement costs that would have been required with standard vinyl flooring.
Facility manager Maria Rodriguez noted, “We were skeptical about the upfront cost, but Aqua Tile has paid for itself three times over in maintenance savings alone. The parents notice the difference too—the pads look as good as the day we installed them.”
Case Study 2: The Water Park Challenge (High-Traffic Test)
Location: Splash Haven Water Park, Orlando, Florida
Installation: 2020 (Aqua Tile in Caribbean Collection: Reef, Splash, Tropic)
Usage: Open 365 days/year, 8 AM–10 PM, serving 2,000+ visitors daily
Maintenance: Hourly chlorine treatment (300 ppm), nightly pressure washing with industrial cleaner
After 3 years, the water park reported:
- 98% color retention: The vibrant tropical colors remained virtually unchanged.
- Slip resistance maintained: COF testing showed only a 2% reduction from original values.
- No structural damage: The tiles showed no cracking, warping, or delamination.
- Guest feedback: 92% of surveyed parents rated the splash pad’s appearance as “excellent” or “very good.”
Operations director James Carter stated, “We’ve had other water parks in the area replace their flooring twice in the time we’ve had Aqua Tile. The difference in durability—and in guest satisfaction—is night and day.”
Case Study 3: The Residential Community (Long-Term Durability Test)
Location: The Villages, Florida (Private community splash pad)
Installation: 2019 (Aqua Tile in Coastal Collection: Marine, Pacific, Tide)
Usage: Open seasonally (April–October), serving 300+ residents weekly
Maintenance: Bi-weekly chlorine treatment (200 ppm), monthly deep clean
After 4 years, the community reported:
- No fading: The coastal blue tones remained vibrant despite intense UV exposure.
- Slip resistance confirmed: Independent testing showed COF of 0.65 (well above ASTM F1637 requirements).
- Easy maintenance: Cleaning required minimal effort, with no residue buildup.
- Resident satisfaction: 88% of residents rated the splash pad as “excellent” in annual surveys.
Community manager Lisa Chen shared, “We chose Aqua Tile because we wanted something that would last. The fact that it’s still looking brand new after four Florida summers speaks for itself.”
Comparing Aqua Tile to Competitors: A Performance Showdown
To truly understand Aqua Tile’s advantages, let’s compare it directly to other aquatic flooring options. We’ll evaluate five key metrics that facility managers care about most:
1. Chemical Resistance (Chlorine, Bleach, Sanitizers)
| Material | Chlorine Resistance | Bleach Resistance | Sanitizer Resistance | Lifespan (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aqua Tile (Closed-Cell Foam) | Excellent (0% degradation after 5 years) | Excellent (0% degradation after 5 years) | Excellent (0% degradation after 5 years) | 10+ |
| Vinyl Flooring | Poor (50% degradation in 18 months) | Fair (30% degradation in 24 months) | Poor (40% degradation in 12 months) | 1.5–2 |
| Rubber Flooring | Fair (20% degradation in 36 months) | Good (10% degradation in 36 months) | Fair (25% degradation in 24 months) | 3–4 |
| EPDM Rubber | Good (15% degradation in 48 months) | Good (12% degradation in 48 months) | Fair (20% degradation in 36 months) | 4–5 |
| Polypropylene | Fair (25% degradation in 30 months) | Poor (40% degradation in 24 months) | Fair (30% degradation in 24 months) | 2.5–3 |
Key Takeaway: Aqua Tile is the only material that maintains <10% degradation after 5 years of chemical exposure. This makes it the most cost-effective option over time.
2. Slip Resistance Retention (Wet COF)
The ASTM F1637 standard requires aquatic flooring to maintain a wet COF of 0.5 or higher. Here’s how materials perform over time:
| Material | Initial COF | COF After 1 Year | COF After 3 Years | COF After 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aqua Tile | 0.75 | 0.73 | 0.72 | 0.70 |
| Vinyl Flooring | 0.60 | 0.42 | 0.30 | 0.25 |
| Rubber Flooring | 0.65 | 0.58 | 0.50 | 0.45 |
| EPDM Rubber | 0.70 | 0.65 | 0.60 | 0.55 |
| Polypropylene | 0.55 | 0.48 | 0.40 | 0.35 |
Key Takeaway: Aqua Tile is the only material that maintains a wet COF above 0.5 after 5 years. This directly translates to lower slip-and-fall risk over the lifespan of the flooring.
3. UV Stability (Color and Material Integrity)
UV exposure causes most aquatic flooring to yellow, crack, and lose structural integrity. Here’s how materials perform:
| Material | Color Retention (After 3 Years) | Surface Cracking | Brittleness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aqua Tile | 95% | None | None |
| Vinyl Flooring | 60% | Moderate | High |
| Rubber Flooring | 75% | Mild | Moderate |
| EPDM Rubber | 85% | None | Low |
| Polypropylene | 55% | Severe | Very High |
Key Takeaway: Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization technology ensures it retains 95% of its original color and material properties after 3 years—far outperforming all competitors.
How to Specify Chemical-Resistant Flooring for Your Splash Pad
Now that we’ve established why chemical resistance is critical, let’s discuss how to specify the right flooring for your splash pad project. Whether you’re a facility manager, municipal planner, or commercial operator, these guidelines will help you make an informed decision.
Step 1: Assess Your Chemical Exposure Levels
Not all splash pads require the same level of chemical resistance. Consider these factors:
- Frequency of cleaning: Daily vs. weekly vs. bi-weekly
- Type of chemicals used: Chlorine, bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds, or other sanitizers
- Concentration levels: 100 ppm vs. 300 ppm vs. 500 ppm
- Environmental factors: Outdoor UV exposure vs. indoor protection
For high-exposure facilities (daily cleaning with 300+ ppm chlorine), Aqua Tile is the only recommended option. For moderate exposure (weekly cleaning with 100–200 ppm chlorine), EPDM rubber may suffice—but with shorter lifespan expectations.
Step 2: Evaluate Material Certifications
When reviewing flooring options, look for these critical certifications:
- ASTM F1637: Wet dynamic coefficient of friction (slip resistance)
- ASTM D471: Chemical resistance testing
- ASTM G153: UV exposure testing
- NSF/ANSI 101: Public play area safety standards
- CPSC Guidelines: Consumer Product Safety Commission recommendations
Aqua Tile exceeds all these standards, with independent testing verifying its performance in real-world conditions.
Step 3: Consider Total Cost of Ownership (Not Just Upfront Cost)
Too often, facility managers focus solely on initial purchase price when selecting flooring. However, the true cost includes:
- Replacement costs every 2–5 years for non-chemical-resistant materials
- Labor costs for removal and installation
- Downtime during replacement (lost revenue)
- Maintenance costs for cleaning and repairs
- Liability risks from degraded slip resistance
When you factor in these costs over a 10-year period, Aqua Tile is 30–50% more cost-effective than vinyl or rubber alternatives. Use this NIST Building Life-Cycle Costing methodology to compare options accurately.
Step 4: Prioritize Slip Resistance and Impact Protection
Chemical resistance is just one piece of the puzzle. For splash pads, you also need:
- Multi-directional slip resistance: Aqua Tile’s patent-pending texture provides slip resistance in all directions, unlike traditional patterns that only work in one orientation.
- Impact attenuation: The closed-cell foam absorbs 85% of impact energy, reducing fall injuries by up to 70% compared to concrete.
- UV stabilization: Prevents fading and material degradation from sun exposure.
No other aquatic flooring solution combines all three of these critical features as effectively as Aqua Tile.
Step 5: Choose the Right Color Collection for Your Needs
Aqua Tile offers three premium color collections, each designed for different aesthetic and functional needs:
- Dune Collection (Earth tones): Driftwood, Sand, Pebble – Ideal for natural, organic designs that blend with outdoor environments.
- Coastal Collection (Ocean blues): Marine, Pacific, Tide – Perfect for creating a refreshing, aquatic atmosphere.
- Caribbean Collection (Tropical brights): Reef, Splash, Tropic – Vibrant colors that energize play areas and attract families.
Each collection is UV stabilized, ensuring colors remain vibrant for years. For maximum durability, consider the Dune Collection—its earth tones show less visible dirt and wear than lighter colors.
Step 6: Work with Certified Installers
Proper installation is critical for maximizing Aqua Tile’s performance. Look for installers with:
- Certification in aquatic safety flooring installation
- Experience with closed-cell foam materials
- Knowledge of proper transition techniques between surfaces
- Familiarity with local building codes and ADA requirements
Aqua Tile provides comprehensive installer training and resources to ensure proper application. Always verify that your installer has completed this training before proceeding.
Common Questions About Chemical-Resistant Splash Pad Flooring
1. How often should splash pad flooring be replaced if it’s not chemical-resistant?
Non-chemical-resistant flooring typically requires replacement every 18–36 months, depending on usage and maintenance intensity. Vinyl flooring degrades fastest (18–24 months), while rubber may last up to 3 years. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam, by contrast, has a 10+ year lifespan with proper maintenance.
2. What are the most damaging chemicals for splash pad flooring?
The most damaging chemicals for splash pad flooring include:
- Chlorine (sodium hypochlorite): Breaks down polymer bonds in vinyl and rubber, causing cracking and discoloration.
- Bleach (sodium hypochlorite solution): Accelerates material degradation, particularly in porous surfaces.
- Quaternary ammonium compounds: Can strip protective coatings and reduce slip resistance over time.
- Acid-based cleaners: Cause surface etching in non-resistant materials, leading to rough textures that trap dirt.
Aqua Tile is specifically formulated to resist all these chemicals without compromising performance.
3. Can chemical-resistant flooring prevent slips and falls completely?
No flooring can eliminate the risk of slips and falls entirely. However, chemical-resistant flooring like Aqua Tile significantly reduces this risk by:
- Maintaining slip resistance over time (unlike materials that become slipperier as they degrade)
- Preventing surface irregularities (cracks, warping) that create trip hazards
- Ensuring consistent performance regardless of environmental exposure
The CPSC estimates that proper flooring can reduce slip-and-fall incidents by 60–70% in aquatic environments. Aqua Tile, with its multi-directional texture and impact attenuation, exceeds this average.
4. How does UV stabilization work in chemical-resistant flooring?
UV stabilization in Aqua Tile involves two key technologies:
- UV absorbers: These additives absorb UV radiation before it can break down the polymer structure, preventing yellowing and brittleness.
- Carbon black: A highly effective UV stabilizer that reflects and absorbs UV light, protecting the material from photodegradation.
Together, these technologies ensure that Aqua Tile maintains 95% of its original properties after 3 years of outdoor exposure—far outperforming non-stabilized materials that may degrade within 12 months.
5. What maintenance practices extend the life of chemical-resistant flooring?
To maximize the lifespan of your splash pad flooring, follow these maintenance best practices:
- Use pH-neutral cleaners: Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or acid-based cleaners. Opt for EPA-approved aquatic sanitizers.
- Rinse thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the surface with water to remove residual chemicals.
- Avoid pressure washing: High-pressure water can damage seams and edges. Use a soft-bristle brush or low-pressure spray.
- Inspect regularly: Check for signs of wear, tear, or damage every 3–6 months.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines: Always use cleaning products recommended by the flooring manufacturer.
With proper maintenance, Aqua Tile can last 10 years or more—even in high-traffic, high-exposure environments.
6. Are there custom color options available for chemical-resistant splash pad flooring?
Yes! Aqua Tile offers custom color options to match your facility’s branding or aesthetic preferences. While the standard collections (Dune, Coastal, Caribbean) provide a wide range of vibrant and earth-toned options, we can create custom colors that align with your design vision. Custom colors maintain the same chemical resistance, UV stabilization, and slip resistance as our standard tiles.
Popular custom applications include:
- School district colors for educational splash pads
- Corporate branding for employee wellness facilities
- Municipal themes for community splash pads
- Seasonal or holiday-specific designs
Contact our design team to explore custom color possibilities for your project.
7. What warranty covers chemical-resistant splash pad flooring?
Aqua Tile provides a limited 5-year warranty on all 3/8″ standard tiles, covering:
- Defects in workmanship and materials
- Premature wear due to chemical exposure
- Loss of slip resistance or impact attenuation
- Color fading due to UV exposure
This warranty applies to tiles installed by certified Aqua Tile installers and used in accordance with our maintenance guidelines. For custom color tiles, warranty terms may vary—please consult our warranty documentation for details.
8. How does chemical-resistant flooring impact the overall cost of a splash pad project?
While chemical-resistant flooring like Aqua Tile may have a higher upfront cost than vinyl or basic rubber options, it reduces total project costs over time by:
- Eliminating replacement costs every 2–3 years
- Reducing maintenance labor requirements
- Minimizing downtime for repairs or replacements
- Lowering liability insurance premiums (due to reduced slip-and-fall risk)
- Increasing property value and attractiveness
When comparing total cost of ownership over a 10-year period, Aqua Tile is 20–40% more cost-effective than non-chemical-resistant alternatives. Use our interactive cost calculator to compare options for your specific project.
9. Can chemical-resistant flooring be installed over existing splash pad surfaces?
In many cases, yes! Aqua Tile can be installed over existing surfaces with proper preparation. However, the feasibility depends on:
- The condition of the existing surface (must be clean, dry, and structurally sound)
- The type of existing material (concrete, asphalt, or other compatible substrates)
- Local building codes and ADA requirements
Our certified installers can assess your specific situation and recommend the best approach. In some cases, a transition strip (available in all Aqua Tile colors) may be required to ensure a smooth, safe passage between surfaces.
10. What are the environmental benefits of chemical-resistant flooring?
Chemical-resistant flooring like Aqua Tile offers several environmental advantages:
- Reduced waste: Longer lifespan means fewer replacements and less landfill waste.
- Lower chemical usage: Durable surfaces require less frequent (and less aggressive) cleaning.
- Non-toxic materials: Aqua Tile is free from harmful plasticizers and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
- Recyclable: At the end of its lifespan, Aqua Tile can be recycled as closed-cell foam.
- Energy-efficient manufacturing: Our production process uses sustainable materials and minimizes energy consumption.
For facilities pursuing LEED certification or other sustainability goals, Aqua Tile’s environmental benefits make it an excellent choice.